Overview
- The New York Islanders, Oak View Group and TD Coliseum unveiled the franchise name and logo as the Hamilton Hammers on May 21, 2026.
- The Hammers will begin play next AHL season in the North Division at the 18,000‑seat TD Coliseum, which reopened after a reported $300 million renovation.
- The new brand uses crossed hammers and the Islanders’ orange and blue to link the team to Hamilton’s steelworking past and build a distinct local identity.
- Islanders officials said geography will not hinder NHL–AHL call‑ups and framed the move as a step to better develop prospects while establishing a local fanbase.
- The relocation replaces the Bridgeport Islanders after attendance and operational struggles and returns AHL hockey to a city with a long history of minor‑league teams.